Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
Amid threats by some former Abia State governors to frustrate his re-election bid and deliver the state to the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2027, the Archbishop of the Methodist Church Nigeria, Umuahia Archdiocese, Archbishop Chibuzor Opoko, has urged Governor Alex Otti to remain focused and ignore his detractors.
In a strongly worded letter addressed to the governor, Archbishop Opoko encouraged Otti to stay committed to his transformation agenda, assuring him of the unwavering support of the Church and the masses.
The cleric urged the governor to continue delivering good governance to the people, stressing that his achievements would speak for him when the time comes.
Archbishop Opoko, who conveyed a vote of confidence on behalf of the Methodist community in the Umuahia Archdiocese, said no amount of opposition would derail the administration’s commitment to good governance in the state.
He noted that reformers are often misunderstood and resisted by those tied to the past they seek to correct, and urged the governor not to be discouraged.
A copy of the letter sighted by our correspondent read in part: “Your Excellency, recent distractions and unguarded political attacks are not unexpected companions of purposeful leadership. History teaches us that reformers are often misunderstood in their time and resisted by the echoes of the past they seek to correct. It is imperative to remind you of the Yoruba proverb which says that ‘a sweet fruit-bearing tree attracts stones.’
“I therefore urge you not to be distracted. Keep your hands steady on the plough. Be focused. Continue to deliver the dividends of democracy. Let your works speak louder than the noise, and let your conscience remain captive to truth, justice, and the fear of God. The Lord God Almighty will vindicate the just.
“On behalf of the Methodist Church Nigeria, Archdiocese of Umuahia, and as a shepherd who watches over the spiritual and social well-being of our people, I offer you a clear vote of confidence.
“We pray that the God who gives wisdom to kings will continually grant you discernment, strength, protection and grace. May He who establishes the steps of the righteous establish the work of your hands and crown your efforts with great success and enduring impact.
“Be assured of our prayers, moral support, and goodwill as you continue to serve Abia State with vision and great resolve.”
In another part of the letter, the Archbishop commended Governor Otti’s leadership style, describing it as visionary, courageous and people-oriented.
“I write with a heart full of gratitude to Almighty God and with deep pastoral concern for the soul of our state, to sincerely appreciate your leadership and the uncommon grace with which you have steered the affairs of Abia State.
“In the fluid theatre of Nigerian politics, often riddled with unfulfilled promises, shifting loyalties, and bureaucratic inertia, you have emerged as a refreshing exception.
“Barely two years into office, you have redefined governance in Abia, lifting it from a cautionary tale of misrule to a growing exemplar of purposeful leadership, institutional renewal, and people-focused development.”
Archbishop Opoko said the administration had not only transformed physical infrastructure but also restored public confidence and hope among the people.
He highlighted achievements in education, health, infrastructure, and the systematic payment of outstanding salary and pension arrears, describing them as acts of justice that have restored dignity to workers and retirees.
Quoting the Scripture, he noted that “when the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice,” adding that leadership rooted in integrity, accountability and compassion is both effective governance and an expression of divine stewardship.
The Archbishop assured Governor Otti of the continued prayers and support of the Methodist Church to enable him successfully deliver on his mandate.
